wisconsin dells boat tours

THE 10 BEST Wisconsin Dells Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in wisconsin dells.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Dells Boat Tours

2. Dells Army Ducks

3. Original Wisconsin Ducks

4. Wildthing Jetboat Tours

5. Vertical Illusions

6. Dells Watersports

7. Jet Boat Adventures

8. Redbeard Bowfishing Tours

9. Ghost Boat

10. Captain Ron's Original Dells Jet Boats

11. Holiday Shores Watersports

12. Compass Airsports

13. Schleef's Boat & Pontoon Rental

14. Off the hook guide service LLC

15. Dells Kayak and Canoe Rentals

16. Adrenaline Rush Sports LLC

17. Beaver Springs Fishing Park

18. Reel Good Guide

19. Wild Wisco Waters Canoe & Kayak Outfitters

20. Paddle Pub Wisconsin Dells

21. Jeff Freas

22. dells boat tours, what travellers are saying.

• Vertical Illusions
• Dells Watersports
• Dells Army Ducks
• Original Wisconsin Ducks
• Dells Boat Tours
• Wildthing Jetboat Tours
• Schleef's Boat & Pontoon Rental
• Jet Boat Adventures

Dells Boat Tours® Tickets

Upper Dells

Lower Dells

Upper Dells Boat Tour

High cliffs, dramatic rock formations and two exclusive shore landings at Witches Gulch and Stand Rock (site of the world-famous dog leap)! This is a two hour tour with breath taking scenery that can only be experienced by way of our boat tours.

Lower Dells Boat Tour

Tour the region which features famous landmarks such as the Rocky Islands, Hawk's Bill, and Baby Grand Piano. This is a one hour tour enjoying the history and folklore of the area.

Your chance to experience the natural beauty, wonder and mystery of Wisconsin Dells in just about every way imaginable! There are two tours for you and your family to enjoy!

All children age 3 and under are free.

20 or more?

[email protected] 608.254.8555

Operating Season

Daily mid april - early november.

Weather permitting

Early June - Labor Day

Apr - may, sep - nov.

Dells Boat Tours

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DELLS BOAT TOURS (Wisconsin Dells) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Take a guided Duck ride of the Lower Dells aboard a Original World War II-era Dells Army Duck! The Ducks have been one of Wisconsin Dells’ most popular Wisconsin Dells attraction for 70+ years , and they provide a sightseeing experience unlike any other. Discover sandstone rock formations that are over 14,000 years old such as Grotto Island, the Twin Ink Stands, Sugar Bowl, and Lone Rock. Two Splash Downs into Sasquatch Lake and use the Duck’s six-wheel drive capabilities to traverse Dell Creek. Our 55 minute, land-and-water Duck rides has been the most unique and original way to experience the Wisconsin Dells for over 70 years.

The Dells were created at the end of the last glacial period from the flood waters of the Wisconsin River ripping through soft sandstone that was once the floor of a prehistoric sea. The raging river managed to carve the gorges, caves, rocky islands and towering cliffs which would come to be admired for centuries. Visitors have been coming to the Wisconsin Dells to take-in the natural wonders for generations, and a guided boat tour aboard one of our amphibious Ducks provides an experience your family won’t soon forget!

During the summer months, Dells Army Ducks depart every 30 minutes daily for a 55 minute duck boat tour . All duck boat tours are guided through the Lower Dells of the Wisconsin River, exposing you up close to one-of-a-kind rock formations. Visit our Photo Gallery to see historic photos and tour images. It’s fun, entertaining and a must-do when visiting Wisconsin Dells!

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Pick Two Attractions for Only $99

The Dells Army Ducks, Bigfoot Ziplines, and WildThing Jet Boats for Only $125

Group Tours

Group rates are available for groups of 10 or more. Call us today 608-254-5555!

Boat Upgrade Special

Add an additional Wisconsin Dells boat tour to any purchase. ADULTS: $21.99 - CHILD: (Ages 4-11) $13.99

PT109 – No Longer Available

Our PT109 boat is no longer available

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Our one-hour, half-land, half-water adventure features the most scenic parts of Wisconsin Dells, including the Wisconsin River, Dell Creek, Lake Delton and the Dells Scenic Park, exclusively traveled by Original Wisconsin Ducks ® on trails we’ve used since 1946!

Click the red numbers on the map for a preview of major points of interest!

Original Wisconsin Ducks ® is the ONLY duck tour in the world in continuous operation since 1946. Follow this historic timeline to see how it all began, how the tour has grown and evolved, and how we’ll continue to deliver our promise of Fun! Adventure! On Land and Water! ® for years to come.

A New Weapon for the Allies

With the advent of World War II and the near-constant bombardment of port cities, the Allied Forces realize that an amphibious craft is needed to ferry troops and supplies directly from ship to shore. The answer comes on June 3, 1942 when a pilot version of a 6-wheeled, 2.5-ton amphibious truck is readied for testing. The vehicle proves reliable and versatile, and an initial order of 600 is placed with a delivery date of December 31, 1942.

SO WHY IS IT CALLED A “DUCK?”

As a United States military vehicle, this new amphibious truck is assigned a code: DUKW. “D” represents 1942, the year of its design. “U” indicates a utility vehicle. “K” means all-wheel drive capability. And “W” signifies duel rear-driving axels. But it isn’t long before American soldiers look at the code and the vehicle’s land and water capabilities, and in typical GI fashion simplify it to the nickname “Duck.”

1943 – 1953

An outstanding service record.

Ducks first see action as part of General Patton’s invasion force at Sicily. Despite poor weather conditions, the vehicles perform admirably and are soon slated for duty on D-Day, throughout the European theatre, and the island-hopping campaign in the Pacific. The Ducks prove indispensable. By the end of their production in 1945, a total of 21,147 DUKWs are produced.

1945 – 1946

Civilian life.

While the military continue to use some DUKWs in limited roles (mostly notably, the Korean War), the majority of vehicles stationed stateside are decommissioned and offered to the general public via army surplus. Soon Ducks are being used by communities for everything from fire-fighting to water rescue. But a man named Bob Unger had another idea.

MAIDEN VOYAGE: THE FIRST DUCK TOUR

The tour that would become Original Wisconsin Ducks ® is launched in the summer of 1946. Bob Unger owned an army surplus Duck. Mel Flath had the idea for a ride, and Helen Raab leased them land she owned between Lake Delton and the Wisconsin River for the tour. The first tour is pictured at left, with Raab and her friends in the back, and Unger behind the wheel.

DELLS CORPORATION FOUNDED

In 1947, Helen Raab and Dr. Reinhold Ebert form the Dells Corporation, which represents the land holdings and trails used on the tour. This area, filled with fern dells, rocky gorges, and beautiful wilderness, is known as the Lower Dells Scenic Park. Herman Breitenbach manages the holdings and Raab and Ebert begin purchasing more Ducks for the future.

COLORFUL CHANGES

Dr. Ebert buys out Mel Flath to become sole owner of the business, named Wisconsin Dells Amphibian Lines, while retaining a 50% share of the Dells Corporation. He names the Ducks after Native Americans, adds canopies, paints the vehicles in many vibrant colors, and builds a new Duck Dock at our current location, 1890 Wisconsin Dells Parkway.

CHANGING OF THE GUARD

In May 1956, Dr. Ebert and Helen Raab transfer their interests in Wisconsin Dells Amphibious Lines and the Dells Corporation to an ownership group compromised of four Wisconsin Dells boat companies. The new company is named Wisconsin Ducks, Inc. with Ben Olson becoming the first General Manager.

WELCOMING A NEW STANDARD

In 1959, new General Manager Walt Stanton standardizes the Ducks with their classic green and white colors, changes the majority of Duck names to places the vehicles served in World War II, and introduces the iconic slogan “Fun! Adventure! On Land and Water!” Positive, impactful contributions that leave a lasting and visible legacy for decades to come.

1950 – 1960

Meeting friends along the trail.

Original Wisconsin Ducks ® exclusive wilderness trails are famous for giving passengers an up-close view of wildlife, from whitetail deer and turkey to fox and beaver. But during the mid-century, tour-goers also enjoyed frequent sightings of goats! Helen Raab introduced a small herd in the 1950s, and it continued to thrive in the area near Hawk’s Bill thru the late 1960s. The goats would often approach the Ducks, looking for sugar cubes.

PLUCKY PROMOTIONS

From the days of Helen Raab and Herman Breitenbach, promoting the Original Wisconsin Ducks ® takes many fun and ingenious forms, from advertising and press coverage to driving Ducks through downtown Milwaukee and Chicago! The brochure at left (used in the late 1950s and early 1960s) is proof that the Fun and Adventure of the tour was often reflected in the ads.

1950 – 1970

Steady leadership in changing times.

Wisconsin Dells continues to grow as a vacation destination and Wisconsin Ducks continues to grow in popularity. New challenges come with new growth, but the consistent leadership of men, like Jack Anchor, John Dixon, and Matt Bubon help the attraction continue to grow and thrive, under its new official name of ORIGINAL WISCONSIN DUCKS ® .

SPREADING OUR WINGS

The decade sees Original Wisconsin Ducks ® launching new initiatives to meet growing customer demands and keep up with the changing social landscape. A new Duck Dock is built in 1975, the first female Duck driver is hired in 1977, and Aquaduck Cruise Tours (pictured at left) is purchased (also in 1977). This added 16 more Ducks to our rapidly expanding fleet.

TRADITION MEETS INOVATION

Since 1946, Original Wisconsin Ducks ® has been constantly striving to maintain a high quality tour. One key to this goal is enhancing vehicle performance without sacrificing its historic integrity. In the late 1980s, TINIAN (pictured at right) becomes the first Duck converted to diesel power for improved fuel efficiency, performance and reliability.

MAKING A GREAT THING EVEN BETTER

From the beginning, Original Wisconsin Ducks ® has operated on exclusive trails thru the Lower Dells Scenic Park. As development along the Park’s outer borders increases, a decision is made to enhance the tour by modifying the route and re-opening old trails in the heart of the forest. Passengers now get a first-hand look at sights (like Black Hawk Gorge, at left) not seen in 1950.

2008 And 2009

Disaster and renewal.

In the Spring of 2008, heavy rain causes Lake Delton to rise 51.5″ over flood stage. A breach occurs in the strip of land between the Lake and the Wisconsin River, draining the Lake in two hours. The challenging summer season sees Original Wisconsin Ducks ® operating river-only tours. Thanks to the efforts of State and Local officials, the breach is repaired and Lake Delton is restored by summer of 2009.

NEW ADVANCES FOR A CLASSIC VEHICLE

For 60 years, Original Wisconsin Ducks ® continues its operation by searching out and acquiring more Ducks to replace retiring vehicles. In the new century, a combination of technological advances and the creativity and expertise of our mechanics allow for a new approach. Enhancing (and even rebuilding) existing Ducks to be better than new!

1947 TO PRESENT

A constant and trustworthy guide.

Since 1947, a staple of Original Wisconsin Ducks ® has been the guidebook of the tour, the first being penned by Helen Raab herself. Throughout the years, the guidebook has been revised, updated and redesigned, always with an eye to offering passengers a more complete understanding of the Duck tour and an appreciation of the Dells’ rich history and natural beauty. The guidebook at right was offered in the 1950s and 1960s.

A 70TH YEAR CELEBRATION

The summer of 2015 marked the 70th year of operation for Original Wisconsin Ducks ® , the only Duck tour in the world to operate non-stop over such a time span. The event is commemorated with special promotions, “Heritage Ducks” decorated in mid-century colors and slogans, and the first ever Duck driver reunion. One weekend in June, over 400 drivers from all eras converged in Wisconsin Dells to take part in a grand celebration.

PRESENT DAY

Welcome aboard.

Today, Original Wisconsin Ducks ® continues to look forward, focused on providing a tour that delivers quality, safety and the ultimate in Fun! Adventure! On Land and Water! Boasting the world’s largest fleet of Ducks (90 vehicles) and the passion and commitment of our drivers, mechanics and managers, we’re ready and able to welcome you aboard, now and for decades to come.

Running an attraction as unique and challenging as Original Wisconsin Ducks ® takes more than an amphibious vehicle. It requires vision, dedication, innovation, and passion from everyone involved. Here is a look at the people behind the vehicles; Our drivers and mechanics strive to ensure safety and quality for Fun and Adventure on Land and Water, every day, on every tour.

DUCK DRIVERS

Your driver is as big a part of making the duck tour a fun, safe and entertaining experience as the Duck itself. Their individuality and personality add to the experience, making each Duck tour truly unique. Duck drivers must be at least 18 years of age and able to perform all job tasks, from driving and maintaining the duck to assisting passengers and ensuring their safety. Because of high season demand, college students on summer break make up the majority of our drivers. Original Wisconsin Ducks ® hires male and female drivers who are expected to know and follow the employee manual, pass pre-employment and random drug tests, possess a DOT Commercial Drivers License, and pass the DNR Boating Safety Class. Learning to drive a Duck is both a skill and an art. New drivers are taught “Duck driving basics,” followed by one month of driving practice (including learning the tour and riding along with experienced drivers). Driving and guiding skills are then assessed. It takes an average of six weeks of training before an Original Wisconsin Ducks ® driver is ready to hit the trail! To apply, CONTACT US HERE .

An amphibious Duck is an exceptional machine. In addition to all the parts and maintenance required for any multi-ton truck, there are many vehicle aspects unique to wartime and non-military water operation. Factor in the Duck‘s 1942-1945 vintage, and it’s clear to see why the Duck is a special vehicle that requires special attention. Since 1946, Original Wisconsin Ducks ® has maintained a highly skilled team of full-time mechanics who keep the vehicles running in tip-top shape throughout the operating season. In addition to being mechanical wizards, our “Duck Doctors” are also artists in metal and machinery, able to fashion and fabricate parts, re-engineer Ducks to accommodate diesel engines, and even rebuild a Duck from the frame up!

Dells Boat Tours® Sunset Dinner Cruise

No dinner out can compare to an evening aboard our Sunset Dinner Cruise. Nowhere else will you find the unparalleled combination of beautiful scenery and delicious food including Grilled surf and Turf entrée. Enjoy live music and an exclusive shore landing with a romantic torchlit stroll through Witches Gulch! The cruise operates most evenings from late May thru mid September, departing from our boat dock at 1033 River Road, downtown Wisconsin Dells. Reservations are required.

Additional Information

1033 River Road Wisconsin Dells, WI 53965

(608) 254-8555

May - September

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Sunset Dinner Cruise

Introducing a unique and delicious venue for an unforgettable evening out — the Sunset Dinner Cruise in Wisconsin Dells.  Welcome aboard our flagship, the Clipper Winnebago, for • a  one-hour open bar  with domestic beers, wines, and  a fresh new variety of fun, creative craft cocktails  •  a tasty dinner menu featuring a savory sirloin steak and grilled shrimp entree • live musical entertainment • the spectacular natural beauty and towering sandstone cliffs of the Upper Dells • and a torch-lit stroll through our shore landing at Witches Gulch.  Operating most evenings from late May thru mid-September.  Questions?  Please call  608.254.8555  or email  [email protected]

Click here for a detailed description of our full cruise menu.

Click here for a map of our departure location and parking area.

Click here for cruise dates, departure times, tickets, and reservations (required).